During a hearing before the House Judiciary Committee, Attorney General Merrick Garland faced questions about his knowledge and involvement in the criminal investigation of Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden.
Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) asked Garland if he had personal contact with anyone at FBI headquarters regarding the Hunter Biden investigation. Garland responded that he did not recollect whether he had spoken to anyone at FBI headquarters about the investigation but clarified that the FBI operates under the Justice Department. Johnson pressed further, emphasizing that Garland couldn’t recall whether he had discussed an investigation into the president’s son with anyone at the FBI headquarters.
Garland insisted that he had kept his promise not to interfere in the investigation and emphasized that U.S. Attorney David Weiss, who leads the Hunter Biden inquiry, had the authority to bring appropriate cases. However, Garland refused to provide details about any discussions he might have had with Weiss, citing his promise to the Senate not to intrude in the investigation.
After a plea deal fell apart, Garland granted Weiss special counsel status, granting him broader authority to bring charges outside of his district. Hunter Biden has been charged with federal gun charges, and his lawyer has indicated that he plans to plead not guilty. Additionally, Hunter Biden may face indictment on tax evasion charges.
Garland noted that he expects Weiss to provide a report at the conclusion of the investigation that explains prosecution decisions. The hearing raised questions about Garland’s involvement and knowledge of the Hunter Biden investigation and his commitment to non-interference.
